Eastern Gateway Community College

The mission of EGCC is to provide a center of learning that enriches lives, connects with students, promotes diversity, builds community and educates for tomorrow through career, transfer, workforce and community education programs. The mission of the Radiologic Technology Program is to provide quality education in the radiographic sciences by proficient instruction, effective testing and utilization of a competency-based clinical education plan.

A radiologic technologist or medical radiographer assists a radiologist (M.D.) in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease and injury through the use of X-rays in hospitals, clinics, and other health agencies. Knowledge of human anatomy is essential to correctly position a patient in order to obtain accurate radiographs. An understanding of radiation exposure (proper voltage, current, exposure time, and equipment) is necessary to obtain quality results and ensure the safety of both patient and technologist. Continuous standing, equipment manipulation, lifting of non-ambulatory patients, and effective communication skills are required to work proficiently, often in an emergency situation. Required high school courses include algebra and two sciences. Physics is strongly recommended. Other recommended courses include Algebra II, geometry, trigonometry, anatomy and physiology, computer science, biology, and chemistry.

Radiologic Technology Program application/admissions criteria are identified in the college catalog.

Facilities for clinical education include the Trinity Health System, Weirton Medical Center and East Ohio Regional Hospital. Each student is assigned to a hospital in the first fall semester of the program; clinical education begins in the sixth week. During the next three semesters and two summer sessions, the student will spend two to five clinical days (7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) per week in the assigned hospital. The second-year student occasionally is assigned afternoon or evening clinical rotations. A copy of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology's "Standards" for an accredited educational program in radiologic sciences is available at the college through the office of the program director.

The graduate is eligible to take the registration examination sponsored by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) upon completion of the associate degree requirements. The successful completion of the ARRT examination allows the graduate to use the initials R.T. (R) (American Registered Technologist in Radiography) after his/her name.

The goals of the Radiologic Technology Program are:

1. The program will graduate students with the knowledge and skills of an entry-level radiographer.

2. Students will demonstrate abilities in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving necessary for professional practice.

3. Students will develop and apply professional attitudes, behaviors, and ethics.

Radiologic Technology Program Clinical Education Schedule

First Year*

Semester I -- Fall
8 hours per week for 9 weeks = 72 hours

Semester II -- Spring
16 hours per week for 15 weeks = 240 hours

Summer Session I
16 hours per week for 5 weeks = 80 hours

Summer Session II
40 hours per week for 5 weeks = 200 hours

Second Year*

Semester III -- Fall
24 hours per week for 15 weeks = 360 hours

Semester IV -- Spring
24 hours per week for 15 weeks = 360 hours

Summer Session I
24 hours per week for 5 weeks = 120 hours

Due to the risk of radiation to an unborn fetus, especially during the first trimester, any student who becomes pregnant during the program should inform the program director immediately. If the student voluntarily states that she is pregnant, then she will be advised about any revisions in her clinical schedule needed to ensure protection for both mother and child, as well as attainment of academic/program clinical competencies. The student's time in the program may need lengthened to ensure that all competencies and requirements are achieved prior to graduation. The student will be provided with an additional film badge, at her own expense, to be worn waist level which will monitor any radiation exposure during the pregnancy.
This information is presented as a general program overview. Students are advised to follow the college catalog they receive upon admission to the college for program requirements.